A drive encouraging Cape Town commuters to opt for public transport or lift clubs was launched on Friday.

The city said the programme, dubbed “Travel Smart”, would also encourage people to choose walking or cycling where possible.

Transport accounted for half of the city’s energy consumption, contributing to more than a quarter of all carbon emissions.  

“The increased congestion on our roads, particularly as a result of single occupancy vehicle (SOV) use, isn’t sustainable,” mayoral committee member Brett Herron said in a statement.

“SOVs are energy inefficient and contribute significantly to emissions, which impact on local air quality, our health and global climate change, not to mention the huge hole they leave in the pockets of commuters due to the high price of fuel and parking.” 

The programme was still in a pilot phase.

“We are very pleased that a number of employers have come on board for this pilot project and are working with the city to shift travel habits to ensure our City’s sustainability and liveability,” said Herron.